I think we lose perspective when you compare Norfolk to other cities. Norfolk has come a long way from the 1980s when I last lived down there. The vibrancy of the city is amazing. And I credit the leaders, NRHA and the citizens for doggedly pursuing making Norfolk into a World Class city. The country and the world is taking note.

New Hotel and retail center planned for near new IKEA and Premium Outlets on Northampton Blvd.
https://pilotonline.com/business/new-hotel-and-more-shops-proposed-near-ikea-and-norfolk/article_cb4cc590-4cd4-5a45-b729-3526f48c5e50.html?sp-tk=F8F861CE7DE7966C180F8A5BF3909B62E0490F1FCA300B5A717F9BB4D899FEF76B3B6E900B80BBCEC2B30B25EC691DB880B2AEB38D3BDB1F8878B4D7C74A73AD65E30A78DB62AE0F05DB4D877D2C89C1FA5C7BE5D6ACC0AB81D6AE118A4B8593992E193C9D4DD69BBCDA1D663902E6CE15E4D6047C63F55776CE98F32C6B81043AF58F4525A49770D180063C3B36571062294822

Waterside can cater to both adults and children during the day. The play area is a great idea during day. Maybe orient some of the restaurants for everyone during the day including children. At 6pm or there about orient it to adults only.

I think Waterside is going to suffer during the daytime because the venue is so bar centric. All I am advocating for is for the Waterside to attract a Dave and Buster's type restaurant that would appeal to adults and kids alike. Being a bar only ensures the place is busy at night on the weekend just like the old version of Waterside.